Survivor spreads anti-violence message

Louise Nicholas will arrive in Hawke's Bay tomorrow to speak at the White Ribbon silent march against violence in Hastings. Photo / Supplied

Louise Nicholas believes attitudes about sexual violence are changing but communities need to continue to work together for it to stay that way.

"It's not a police problem, it's not a government problem, it's a community problem."

The national sexual violence survivor advocate will speak at the White Ribbon Day silent march against violence in Hastings tomorrow..

Once the centre of a court case that shocked the nation, Mrs Nicholas now works with other survivors of sexual violence like herself.

She publicly claimed a history of rape by police in her home town of Rotorua, dating back to when she was just 13.

Her story was heavily reported by media, it was made into a film and she had also written a book.

"Since the film was released, it's been so positive. It's given people the confidence to come forward and tell their story," she said.

"Police aren't burying their heads in the sand as much and that's a huge step forward."

Although she will never forget, and some cases were a dark reminder of her own personal experience, helping victims reiterated the need for action.

"It's not just about women and children but it's about everyone who's affected in violence and crime."

Mrs Nicholas said violence against woman was a generational problem and not only men but children needed educating.

"Kids are the brains, they need to carry it on."

White Ribbon silent march co-ordinator Joe Bailey agreed, and said this year there would be an event aimed at educating children.

Both Mrs Nicholas and Mr Bailey agreed that victim blaming needed addressing in the campaign. Both said it was another form of violence and urged people to stand up and take notice what was going on around them in the community.

-Tomorrow's White Ribbon silent march will start at Albert Park, Karamu Road, Hastings 12 noon. Ngahiwi Tomoana, chairman of Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated, will open the event.